Writer Unblocked

Bria Rose went from Disney cast member to self-published dark romance author—and now she’s releasing her audiobook narrated by none other than Jacob Morgan. In this episode, we talk about: How Disney shaped her storytelling instincts The origin of Her Dark Promise (a Beauty & the Beast retelling where Belle is the beast ) Working with a professional editor and designing a standout cover Bookin...

In this episode of Writer Unblocked , I sit down with award-winning author Carol Van Den Hende to explore how letters can unlock creativity, why empathy and hope are essential in storytelling, and how authors can think about their brand as a promise. Carol also shares her journey from traditional publishing to founding her own B Corp press, and what it really means to publish responsibly. We talk...

In this episode of Writer Unblocked , Nicole talks with author, publisher and former CFO Kirsten Marion , who shares how she turned midlife reinvention into a thriving indie publishing career. They dive into: Why her fantasy series centers a 60-year-old heroine How to plan a publishing schedule like a pro Smart marketing lessons from book one vs. book two The real value of email lists and evergree...

In this episode of Writer Unblocked , host Nicole Op Den Bosch sits down with author, publicist, and literary entrepreneur Dr. Rhonda Lawson to unpack the misunderstood difference between publicity and marketing , explore ethical AI use for writers , and discuss why every entrepreneur needs a book . 🎧 Listen now and discover why visibility starts with strategy, not sales. Resources & Links: D...

In this episode of Writer Unblocked , I sit down with trial attorney and debut author Brad Elder , whose legal thriller Recoil of Justice tackles AI, espionage, and the ethical gray areas of the courtroom. We talk about: Brad’s unexpected leap into writing (1 week from idea to page!) Why he chose self-publishing—and how he learned the entire industry himself Email lists, marketing mistakes, and pl...

In this episode of Writer Unblocked , Nicole shares her personal discovery of Human Design and how learning she is a Manifestor changed everything about how she works, creates, and coaches authors. For years she thought something was “wrong” with her because she couldn’t maintain consistency. Human Design revealed that her energy comes in waves and that honoring these cycles is the key to sustaina...

TL McCoy didn’t plan to write a middle-grade fantasy novel. But when she learned that only 3.4% of children’s books feature disabled protagonists, and her own granddaughter was diagnosed with Dravet Syndrome, Delilah Versus the Ghastly Grim was born. In this powerful episode of Writer Unblocked , TL shares how she: Pivoted from a psychological thriller to inclusive children’s fiction Self-publishe...

How do you tell your story in a way that truly connects? In this episode of Writer Unblocked , I sit down with Dr. Rod Berger —global interviewer, communication architect, and author of The Narrative Edge —to explore how storytelling shapes not just our books, but our identities as authors. Rod has interviewed over 4,000 people worldwide, from Pope Francis to NBA legend Magic Johnson and F1 Champi...

Tired of feeling like marketing your book means becoming a full-time influencer? In this episode of Writer Unblocked , Nicole sits down with Hannah, founder of Made with Boldness , a marketing strategist who helps fiction authors build readership without burning out. Hannah shares practical, stress-free ways to promote your books—starting with the three biggest mistakes she sees authors make: Not...

Edoardo Ballerini is one of the most beloved voices in modern audiobooks. In this episode, we dive into the personal side of voice acting: how Edoardo accidentally missed two years of fan messages (don’t worry, we answer some of them!), why audiobooks are uniquely intimate, and the beautiful, unexpected responses he's received from listeners in pain, grief, and joy. We read real, heartfelt listene...

In this episode, Nicole sits down with Rebecca Fenton—a self-employed media consultant with experience across TV, publishing, audio, and children’s books. Together they explore what it takes to develop original content in today’s saturated landscape, how feedback elevates a good project to a great one, and why authors need to think like creative strategists building a slate, not just a single book...

Bestselling author Nic DiDomizio joins Nicole for a conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and brutally honest. In this candid episode, Nic pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to make it in traditional publishing—from query letter heartbreak to near-deals that died in acquisitions, and the unexpected role James Patterson played in his debut. We also dive into Nic’s latest...

In this soulful and honest episode of Writer Unblocked , Nicole sits down with writer and developmental editor Victoria Jane to unpack what really goes into shaping a strong novel—and a resilient author. They talk about the power of developmental editing, how to support sensitive and neurodivergent writers (including those with ADHD), and why writing doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful. Vict...

In this episode of Writer Unblocked , I sit down with literary agent and soon-to-be certified financial coach Linda Camacho. With 20 years in the publishing industry, Linda offers unfiltered insights into what makes a manuscript stand out, how rights work, and what really happens behind the scenes when your book is on submission. We also talk about the rise of self-publishing, the emotional toll o...

Are you constantly distracted when you sit down to write? Do you find yourself stuck in an endless scroll, even though you meant to open your manuscript? You’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. In this solo episode, Nicole dives into Stolen Focus by Johann Hari and unpacks how our attention is being hijacked by modern life—and what authors can do to reclaim it. Nicole breaks down the science beh...

What if the biggest thing blocking your progress... is you? In this episode of Writer Unblocked, I’m joined by conflict resolution coach and author Dana Bernstein, whose book It’s the Thought That Counts: Mastering the Art of YOU vs. you is an empowering guide to untangling your thoughts, owning your identity, and getting out of your own way. This conversation dives deep — from the internal “commi...

What happens when a hip-hop artist turns his lyrical fire toward children's books? You get Rhymosaurs—a brilliant mashup of storytelling, rhythm, and prehistoric swagger that’s turning picky eaters and fussy sleepers into poetry-loving dino fans. In this high-energy episode, Nicole chats with Orlando Molina, the creative force behind Rhymosaurs, about how he went from laying down bars in studios t...

In this solo episode, Nicole breaks down the key ideas behind The 12 Week Year and how this framework can radically shift the way you write, publish, and promote your book. She shares how she’s adapted the method into a full author success system—and how you can too. Whether you're drafting, revising, querying, or marketing your work, this approach gives you a plan with urgency, structure, and mom...

Your author website shouldn't just sit there looking pretty—it should work for you. In this episode, I chat with web designer and strategist Kate Cross, who specializes in creating websites that actually help authors sell books, grow newsletters, and connect with readers. We get into the good stuff, including: Why “just having a website” isn’t enough anymore How to design a homepage that hooks rea...

In this episode, Nicole discusses the concept of author resilience, emphasizing that it is an ongoing journey rather than a one-time achievement. She shares her personal experiences in building a coaching business for authors and highlights the importance of self-kindness and acceptance during challenging times. Nicole encourages authors to recognize their feelings of self-doubt and imposter syndr...

Today on Writer Unblocked, I’m chatting with audiobook narrator Samantha Norbury. Samantha shares her journey from theater to audiobook narration, the importance of quality production for indie authors, and the impact of AI voices on the industry. We also talk about the emotional connection of this craft, the use of pseudonyms, and the growing accessibility of stories through audiobooks. You can f...

Today on Writer Unblocked, I’m chatting with Meredith Kasian! Meredith shares her journey as an author, discussing her debut novel, The Wielder's Discovery. We delve into the inspiration behind her story, the character development, and the intricate world-building that combines elements of science and magic. She is a chemical engineer, afterall!  Meredith also provides insights into her writi...

Today on Writer Unblocked, I’m chatting with author and publisher Tanya Anne Crosby! Tanya Anne is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of thirty novels. She’s been featured in People, Romantic Times, and Publishers Weekly, and her books have been translated into eight languages. Tanya Anne shares her journey from traditional publishing to becoming a successful indie author and publi...

In this conversation, Ashton M. Smith shares her journey into the world of book design, emphasizing the importance of cover art in attracting readers, especially in the self-publishing landscape. She discusses her educational background, her passion for helping indie authors, and the detailed process she follows to create compelling book covers. Ashton also addresses the challenges of working with...

Today on Writer Unblocked, I’m chatting with author Kara M. Zone about her amazing book Cinders Burn at Midnight - which I am devouring. I loved this conversation, we covered so much. First off, Kara is an advocate and educator on the indie publishing industry. I think she is so smart in her approach and strategy for writing and releasing this book. I loved how open and vulnerable she is about the...